BEIJING, April 8 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Vice President Xi Jinping met on Wednesday with visiting Thai Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn.

    Xi expressed appreciation for her contribution to Sino-Thai friendship and donation to the country's earthquake-hit areas.

    During her China trip from April 3-10, Sirindhorn visited southwest China's Sichuan Province, and donated 10 million yuan for the rebuilding of schools damaged by last year's devastating earthquake.

Chinese Vice President Xi Jinping (R) shakes hands with Thai Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn in the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, China, April 8, 2009

    Xi said China is ready to make joint efforts with Thailand to raise bilateral strategic cooperation to a new level.

    Remarkable progress in bilateral cooperation has benefited the two peoples, and contributed to regional peace and stability, Xi said.

    Sirindhorn told Xi she has a deep affection for China, and she is impressed with the great changes taking place in China whenever she visits the country.

    The Thai princess said she would contribute more to enhancing Thailand-China friendship and cooperation.